This year I was lucky enough to be invited to the first ever KiteJam in Maui, HAWAII.

Bringing together amateur and professional kiteboarders from all over the world, the four-day-long event delivered first-class kiteboarding conditions, clinics, gear demos, incredible parties, great food, world-class music (including a performance from Taimane), a “jam-style” competition, luxurious accommodations at the Hotel Wailea Maui, a swimwear fashion show by Letarte, and much more.

“Our events showcase the fun, social side of the sport and show that it’s something that’s accessible to people from all walks of life,” said Charlie Smith, Virgin Kite Jam co-founder. “Our amateur Kite Jammers get to kite with and learn from their idols as well as making new friends and acquaintances,” he added.

Don’t miss the next jam, in the kiteboarding utopia of the British Virgin Islands. Scheduled for July 7 to 12, the Virgin Kite Jam BVIs will take place on the legendary island of Anegada, as well as Sir Richard Branson’s Necker Island and the surrounding areas. Updates with more info will be available at www.VirginKiteJam.com.